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JAMMU, Sep 10: Advocate Fairoz Khan, Congress Leader, Jammu & Kashmir, and Former National President NSUI, on wednesday expressed deep concern over the silence and inaction of the administration following the tragic landslide near Adhkuwari on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi track.
“It has been 13 days since the landslide claimed the lives of innocent pilgrims, disrupted the sacred Yatra, and left families grieving. Yet, till today, not a single word of accountability has been spoken by the government,” Khan said.
On 29th August, the government had announced the formation of a three-member committee with much publicity to report within two weeks , which are getting over on 11th September
“But since then, there has been only silence – no interim report, no preliminary findings, no responsibility fixed. The administration cannot hide behind files and paperwork while the people demand the truth,” Khan added.
He raised critical questions that remain unanswered: What exactly led to this tragedy? Were there prior warnings or signs of vulnerability that were ignored? Who failed in ensuring the safety of pilgrims on one of the most revered religious tracks in the country?
Why was the rescue delayed and uncoordinated? When will the yatra resume in a safe and reliable manner?
Khan emphasized that compensation alone cannot be called justice. “True justice lies in safety, transparency, and accountability. Pilgrims who visit Mata Vaishno Devi shrine do so with utmost faith. That faith cannot be betrayed by negligence and administrative silence.”
He strongly urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to: Make the inquiry report public without further delay. Announce concrete and time-bound safety measures along the track.
Fix responsibility for lapses that caused loss of lives. Ensure such negligence is never repeated in the future.
“Thirteen days have passed. People are watching. The families of the victims, devotees across the country, and the entire nation want answers. Faith and lives cannot be treated so casually,” Khan concluded.
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